DRONE VOLT Scales Up and Launches the HERCULES 100, Its New Cargo Drone: 100 kg Payload Capacity for 30 Minutes
Villepinte, 9 October 2026 – DRONE VOLT, a French manufacturer of professional drones and a leading technology player in aerial robotics, announces the launch of the HERCULES 100, its new heavy-lift CARGO drone, capable of carrying a payload of up to 100 kg for 30 minutes. (Endurance may vary depending on weather conditions and operational conditions).
With a maximum take-off weight of 197 kg, the HERCULES 100 marks a new milestone in the development of DRONE VOLT’s proprietary solutions and extends the company’s expertise into heavy aerial cargo logistics by drone.
100 kg Payload Capacity and a Mobile Platform
The HERCULES 100 is based on an octocopter architecture offering propulsion system redundancy. Its flight controller incorporates triple redundancy, complemented by an RTK GPS, an obstacle avoidance radar and a terrain-following LiDAR.
Powered by two high-voltage 24S Solid-State batteries, it offers an endurance of up to 30 minutes with a 100 kg payload, with a maximum mission speed of 36 km/h. Foldable (1,660 × 1,060 × 720 mm), the HERCULES 100 can be transported in a pick-up truck. This enables teams to transport the platform by road, then deploy and operate it directly from an advanced operating location.
A True Aerial Logistics Platform
The HERCULES 100 is modular and can accommodate different equipment depending on the mission. In particular, a remotely controlled automated winch with a maximum capacity of 80 kg makes it possible to deliver a load without landing the drone. The platform can also be fitted with an automatic hook connected to a 30-metre sling, allowing transport configurations to be adapted to terrain constraints.
Industry, Civil Protection and Armed Forces
The HERCULES 100 is designed to meet a wide range of needs, including equipment transport, the supply of remote sites, industrial logistics and operations in environments that are difficult to access.
For civil protection and fire and rescue services, it can notably support the delivery of emergency response equipment, pumps, hoses, medical equipment or CBRN-E equipment (chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive), communications equipment, batteries, water and food supplies, particularly during wildfires, floods, and natural or technological disasters.
For the armed forces, the HERCULES 100 also opens up opportunities for operational logistics and resupply, particularly for transporting equipment, food supplies, water, batteries, spare parts and medical support equipment. Its mobility and ability to be deployed from a pick-up truck are valuable assets for operations conducted as close as possible to operational areas.
A Platform Developed in France
The HERCULES 100 was developed in France and continues the HERCULES product range, building on its core principles of robustness, modularity and safety. DRONE VOLT is also working on defining the initial CONOPS (Concepts of Operations) and assessing them in accordance with the SORA methodology (Specific Operations Risk Assessment), in preparation for future operations and the corresponding authorisation applications. DRONE VOLT therefore aims to offer a comprehensive CARGO solution combining an aerial platform, equipment, operational expertise and regulatory support.
Marc Courcelle, Chief Executive Officer of DRONE VOLT
“With the HERCULES 100, DRONE VOLT is moving up to a new level. Carrying up to 100 kg for 30 minutes opens up a new range of applications for drone-based CARGO transport. Developed in France, transportable in a pick-up truck and quick to deploy, the HERCULES 100 has been designed as a true aerial logistics platform, serving applications ranging from industry to civil protection and logistical support for the armed forces.”
About DRONE VOLT
Founded in 2011, DRONE VOLT is an aerospace manufacturer specialising in professional civilian drones and artificial intelligence. DRONE VOLT operates in France, the Benelux region, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, the United States and Switzerland. As a global partner, DRONE VOLT provides its customers with turnkey, application-specific solutions, including a range of services and drone pilot training.
DRONE VOLT supplies public authorities and industrial companies, including the French Army, the French Ministry of the Armed Forces, Engie, Total, Bouygues ES, ADP, the French Air Transport Gendarmerie (GTA) and international government agencies.
DRONE VOLT has been awarded the “Innovative Company” qualification by Bpifrance.
Source: DRONE VOLT
